North Port Red Light Accident Lawyer

As a society, we use traffic lights to ensure road safety, and it is very important to obey these signals. They are very simple and intuitive, but some drivers consider them more of a suggestion. They might be in a hurry, thinking that they are more important than others and that they should be let through the intersection regardless of the lights. Or they might be driving at night and consider it safe to run a red light, as there is nobody around. There are many reasons why people do not stop at a red light, but only a small fraction of them are justifiable.

If you were in a car accident in North Port, Florida, that was caused by another driver’s recklessness and refusal to obey traffic lights, you could have the right to compensation for the damage and injuries incurred. Contact The Law Place today for a free consultation. Our North Port car accident lawyers will assess your case and inform you of your rights and options. Our phone lines are available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (941) 444-4444.

Red Light Accident Lawyer in North Port: Understanding Possible Reasons for Ignoring a Red Light

There is a reason why cities put traffic lights at their intersections. Traffic lights increase road safety by indicating when it is safe to go. It is the most basic traffic signal.

In Florida, drivers might make the following excuses for ignoring a red light:

• They were in a hurry.
• They thought they would still make it.
• The driving conditions were poor.
• The visibility was poor.
• They did not expect the traffic lights to change so quickly.
• They did not want to block the driver behind them.
• They were distracted.

These excuses might seem justifiable, but they are nowhere near that. All drivers must always adapt their driving to current conditions. Otherwise, they pose a danger to themselves and their surroundings.

Understanding the Risks of Ignoring a Red Light

Ignoring a red light can have severe consequences, including car accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. When a driver fails to stop at a red light, they put themselves and others at significant risk of harm. The risks of ignoring a red light include:

• Increased Risk of Accidents: Ignoring a red light dramatically increases the likelihood of a car accident. Other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists may not expect a vehicle to enter the intersection, leading to dangerous collisions.
• Serious Injuries: Car accidents caused by ignoring a red light can result in serious injuries, such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and head trauma. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and can have long-term effects on the victims’ lives.
• Fatalities: In severe cases, ignoring a red light can lead to fatalities, either for the driver or other road users. The sudden and unexpected nature of these accidents can be devastating for all parties involved.
• Financial Consequences: Ignoring a red light can result in significant financial burdens, including mounting medical bills, lost wages, and damage to property. The financial strain can be overwhelming, especially when combined with the physical and emotional toll of the accident.

Common Causes of Ignoring a Red Light

There are several common causes of ignoring a red light, each of which can lead to dangerous and potentially fatal car accidents:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are distracted by their phones, passengers, or other factors may not notice a red light or fail to stop in time. Distractions can significantly impair a driver’s ability to react quickly and safely.
• Reckless Driving: Drivers who engage in reckless behavior, such as speeding or tailgating, are more likely to ignore a red light. Reckless driving increases the risk of accidents and endangers everyone on the road.
• Fatigue: Drivers who are tired or fatigued may not be able to react quickly enough to stop at a red light. Fatigue can slow reaction times and impair judgment, making it difficult to drive safely.
• Lack of Attention: Drivers who are not paying attention to the road or are unaware of their surroundings may ignore a red light. Inattentive driving can lead to dangerous situations and increase the likelihood of accidents.

Possible Consequences of Ignoring a Red Light

Accidents caused by ignoring a red light tend to be quite serious. If there is a green light, you assume that you can drive safely through the intersection. Therefore, you might not be ready for a vehicle coming from a direction that is supposed to be waiting. This can end up in a dangerous head-on or side collision, which can get you injured or even killed. Furthermore, by crashing into your car, the reckless driver might push you to a different lane, making your car hit other cars, causing injuries to their passengers as well.

Additionally, dealing with insurance adjusters can be challenging, as they often aim to minimize payouts for claims.

The most common serious injuries resulting from a collision caused by running a red light include:

• Whiplash injury.
• Traumatic brain injury.
• Spinal cord injury.
• Internal bleeding or internal injury.
• Broken bones.
• Physical disfigurement.

It is crucial to seek medical attention immediately after an accident, as some injuries may not be immediately noticeable but can have long-term effects.

However, a car accident and the injuries associated with it can also have a devastating impact on your mental health. It is therefore important to know your rights and fight for justice if you find yourself in a car crash that was not your fault. Contact The Law Place today for a free consultation.

Florida Motor Vehicle No-Fault Law

Florida Statute 627.7407 defines the no-fault law. As Florida is a no-fault state, victims must file claims with their own insurance company rather than pursuing claims directly against the at-fault driver. This law means that drivers involved in a car accident should first seek compensation from their own insurance companies, no matter who caused the accident. Filing a claim with your own insurance company is essential to seek compensation for injuries sustained in the accident. Any personal vehicle in Florida must be insured for personal injury protection (PIP) and property damage liability (PDL). The lower limit for both PIP and PDL is $10,000. However, it is probable that the costs of a car accident caused by running a red light in North Port, Florida, will exceed this amount. In this case, if you have your policy set for the minimum, you might end up paying money for something you did not cause. If this is the case, call us immediately. Our attorneys specialize in car accidents and personal injury and will help you get the damages you deserve.

Informing Your Insurance Company Following an Accident

If you find yourself in a car crash in North Port, Florida, you are required by law to inform your insurance company about it. However, you need to be careful about what you report. Insurance companies, like any other business, concentrate on profit. Therefore, they might use tactics designed to lower the amount of damages you are entitled to. This can include, for example, devaluing your claim, declaring that you had the injuries already before the accident, or trying to prove that you are partially responsible for the collision.

Consulting a car accident lawyer immediately after an accident can help safeguard your rights and ensure you gather the necessary evidence to support your claim. Because of this, we strongly recommend informing them just about the fact that you had an accident and ensuring them that you will provide all the details later. Afterward, contact an accident lawyer, like the ones we have at The Law Place. A professional attorney will advise you on how to communicate with the company and guide you through the whole legal process. An experienced attorney will help you collect the necessary evidence to strengthen your case and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. This way, you have a much better chance of receiving the damages you deserve.

Claiming Damages Following a Car Accident in North Port, FL.

We understand that even full compensation for your injuries cannot repair trauma after a car crash. However, it can significantly improve your life if you do not have to worry about high medical bills and can focus on your recovery. Understanding Florida law, particularly the statute of limitations for filing claims, is crucial to ensure you do not lose your right to seek compensation. It is also important to seek justice in order to teach the driver a lesson and potentially prevent future car accidents caused by their reckless driving. The Law Place can help you get the compensation you deserve for the following damages:

• Medical bills.
• Lost wages.
• Loss of earning potential.
• Property damage.
• Pain and suffering.
• Wrongful death.

Personal injury attorneys can provide the legal support and representation needed to navigate the complexities of compensation claims and deal with insurance companies.

Principle of Comparative Fault in Florida

Florida Statute 768.81 defines the principle of comparative fault. This means that, in case of a car crash, more than one driver can be found guilty. The individual driver’s extent of fault is expressed through a percentage. If you are less than 50% at fault, you can still claim compensation, but it will be reduced accordingly.

Consulting an experienced car accident lawyer promptly can help you navigate the complexities of legal deadlines and ensure you do not lose your right to seek compensation.

For example, if someone failed to stop at a red light and crashed into you at an intersection, but you were on your phone while driving, the other party will try to pass some of their blame on to you. If it is then determined that your actions contributed to 10% of the accident, you get your settlement reduced by 10%.

The insurance company of the other party will do its best to make your share of the blame as high as possible. This is why we do not recommend dealing with this matter on your own. One of our experienced North Port personal injury lawyers will help you minimize your percentage of fault and reach the settlement you deserve.

Attorneys often collaborate with medical professionals to gather credible evidence and provide valuable insights that enhance the overall strength of your claim.

Gathering Evidence After an Auto Accident

Gathering evidence after an auto accident is crucial in building a strong case and seeking compensation. The following types of evidence can be invaluable:

• Physical Evidence: This includes damage to vehicles, skid marks, and other physical signs of the accident. Physical evidence can help establish the circumstances leading to the collision and prove liability.
• Witness Statements: Statements from witnesses can provide valuable information about the accident, including the actions of the drivers involved. Eyewitness accounts can offer an objective perspective on what happened.
• Police Reports: Police reports can provide an objective perspective on the accident and may include information about the cause of the accident and any citations issued. These reports are often critical in legal proceedings.
• Medical Records: Medical records can provide evidence of the injuries sustained in the accident and the treatment required. Detailed medical documentation is essential for proving the extent of the injuries and the associated medical expenses.
• Photographs and Videos: Photographs and videos of the accident scene and damage to vehicles can provide visual evidence of the accident. Visual documentation can be compelling in demonstrating the severity of the collision and the harm caused.

Types of Injuries Caused by Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, each with its own set of challenges and implications:

• Broken Bones: Car accidents can cause broken bones, including fractures to the arms, legs, and ribs. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and can lead to long-term physical pain and limitations.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Car accidents can cause spinal cord injuries, including herniated discs and spinal cord damage. These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis and require ongoing medical care and rehabilitation.
• Head Trauma: Car accidents can cause head trauma, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries. Head injuries can have lasting effects on cognitive function and overall quality of life.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Car accidents can cause soft tissue injuries, including whiplash and sprains. These injuries can be painful and may require physical therapy and other treatments.
• Emotional Distress: Car accidents can cause emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The psychological impact of an accident can be just as debilitating as physical injuries and may require professional mental health support.

By understanding the risks, causes, and potential injuries associated with ignoring a red light, you can better appreciate the importance of adhering to traffic laws and seeking legal assistance if you are involved in a car accident. If you have suffered injuries due to a reckless driver, contact The Law Place for a free consultation and let our experienced legal team help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Meet Our Team

Red light accidents often happen in an instant but leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. At The Law Place, our attorneys understand how these crashes impact people’s lives and work hard to hold negligent drivers accountable. David A. Haenel focuses on uncovering what went wrong and building evidence-based cases that stand up to insurance defense teams. Darren M. Finebloom has years of experience in personal injury law and communicates directly with clients throughout the process. AnneMarie R. Rizzo takes a detailed and compassionate approach, making sure each case is handled thoroughly and with care. Together, they represent people injured by drivers who run red lights or fail to yield at intersections.

Client Reviews

“The entire law firm staff was courteous, professional and patient throughout the claim process. I would like to single out four individuals—Rose, Cristy, Tracy and of course Darren—for their assistance in litigating my accident case and obtaining a fair and equitable settlement. I would highly recommend them to my friends.” – Steven Barry, 2025-02-05
“AnneMarie and the entire staff were very friendly, professional and quick to return any questions I had by email, phone or text. I am so glad I called The Law Place because AnneMarie got me the outcome I was hoping for and I am very grateful for her expertise. I highly recommend” – Alan Suarez, 2025-02-19
“Darren Finebloom and his team did their very best to get the best possible result in my case. His staff, Tracy and Christie, just to name a few, were very caring and personable. They helped to make my experience feel like I made new friends.” – Rick Arceneaux, 2024-12-19

Case-Specific Results

In one North Port case, a driver ran a red light at a major intersection and struck our client’s vehicle on the driver’s side. The accident caused multiple injuries and totaled the car. Our legal team gathered traffic camera footage, witness statements, and vehicle crash data to prove liability. We negotiated a settlement that included compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and time missed from work. In another case, we represented a pedestrian hit by a car turning through a red light. Despite initial disputes over fault, our team resolved the case with a favorable result that helped the client with ongoing care costs and loss of income.

Testimonials

“AnneMarie, Karla, Jeanna and Beth were helpful, supportive and understanding throughout my experience with The Law Place. I would highly recommend them.” – 2bitevegan, 2024-12-16
“Fantastic experience. Extremely helpful and professional. They took a negative and turned it into a positive.” – Eric Biles, 2024-12-16
“I cannot say enough good things about the help I received from Anne Marie and her assistants Beth, Jenna and Karla. Not only did they resolve my traffic case, they did so with far better outcomes and much more quickly than I could have expected.” – Gigi Kovach, 2024-08-01

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I was hit by someone who ran a red light in North Port?
Call 911 immediately if you or anyone else is injured. Request medical assistance and a police report. If you can, take photos of the scene, gather contact information from witnesses, and avoid discussing fault at the scene. Once safe, contact an attorney to help you begin the claims process and preserve evidence.

How is fault determined in a red light accident?
Fault can be established through police reports, traffic camera footage, witness statements, and vehicle data. Our attorneys analyze this information to determine which driver failed to follow the traffic signal and how that negligence contributed to the crash.

What types of compensation can I recover?
You may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care costs. In severe cases, we may also pursue damages for loss of earning capacity or permanent disability.

What if the other driver denies running the red light?
It is common for at-fault drivers to deny responsibility. Our team collects evidence such as surveillance footage, traffic signal data, and expert reconstruction to show exactly what happened. We are experienced in resolving disputed claims and fighting for our clients’ rights.

How long do I have to file a red light accident claim in Florida?
In most personal injury cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. However, it is best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that deadlines are met and evidence is preserved.

Can I still get compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Florida follows a modified comparative fault system. If you are 50 percent or less at fault, you can still recover compensation, though your total award will be reduced based on your percentage of responsibility.

Schedule a Free Consultation at The Law Place

If you have been involved in a collision caused by a reckless driver that ignored a red light, seek justice, and contact us as soon as possible. Our law firm is dedicated to securing a favorable outcome for our clients, leveraging our extensive experience and specialized legal representation. We have a team of experienced attorneys that specialize in claims following a car crash. Contact our law firm today to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. They will be able to help you win the settlement you deserve. Call us today at [(941) 444-4444](tel:(941) 444-4444) for a free consultation. Phone lines are open 24/7.